Miotic (glaucoma eye drop)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Pilocarpine Hydrochloride is an eye drop that works by making the pupil of your eye smaller and helping fluid drain out of your eye, which lowers eye pressure. Benzalkonium is a preservative added to keep the eye drop free from germs.
Activates muscarinic cholinergic receptors on the ciliary muscle and iris sphincter, causing contraction (miosis) and increased uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor, thereby reducing intraocular pressure. Benzalkonium chloride serves as a preservative and penetration enhancer.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Put 1 to 2 drops into the affected eye, usually 3 to 4 times daily or as your doctor directs. Tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid, and drop the medicine inside. After putting the drop, close your eye gently and press the corner near your nose for about 1-2 minutes to stop the medicine from draining away.
If you miss a dose, put the drop in as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule. Do not put in double drops to make up for it.
This medicine can cause blurred vision, especially at night, so be careful if you are driving or doing anything that needs clear eyesight. Always buy from a registered pharmacy — avoid buying eye drops from roadside sellers or open markets as they may be expired, fake, or contaminated. Do not share your eye drops with anyone else, even if they have the same eye problem.
If you are using other eye drops, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between each different eye drop to avoid washing one away. Tell your doctor if you are taking medicines for asthma or heart problems, as pilocarpine may interact with them. Avoid using with other eye drops that contain preservatives unless your doctor says it is okay.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Pilocarpine with your other drugs?
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this eye drop — it should only be used if your doctor says the benefit is worth the risk.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on window sills or in your car. Keep the bottle tightly closed after use and out of children's reach. Once opened, most eye drops should be used within 4 weeks — check the label and throw it away after that.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.